JP6935480B2 - Racing engine for automated footwear platforms - Google Patents

Description

The following specification describes electric racing systems, electric and non-electric racing engines, footwear components associated with racing engines, automated racing footwear platforms, and Describes various aspects of the related assembly process.

Devices for automatically tightening footwear articles have previously been proposed. In Patent Document 1 entitled "Automatic Tightening hoe", Liu is a first fastener mounted on the upper portion of the shoe and a second fastener connected to a closure member. The second fastener can be detachably engaged with the first fastener to keep the closure member in the tightened state. Liu teaches a drive unit that is mounted on the heel of the sole. The drive unit includes a housing, a spool rotatably mounted within the housing, a pair of drawstrings, and a motor unit. Each string has a first end connected to the spool and a second end corresponding to the string hole in the second fastener. The motor unit is connected to the spool. The Liu can operate so that the motor unit drives the rotation of the spool in the housing and pulls onto the spool to pull the second fastener towards the first fastener. It teaches to wind up a string. Liu also teaches a guide tube unit, which allows the drawstring to extend through the guide tube unit.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,691,433

We recognized the need for improved modular racing engines for automated and semi-automated tightening of shoelaces, among others. This specification describes, among other things, the mechanical design of modular racing engines and related footwear components. The following examples provide a non-limiting overview of the modular racing engines discussed herein and the footwear components that support them.

Example 1 illustrates a subject matter including a modular footwear device. The modular footwear device can include an upper portion, a lower portion, and a racing engine. The upper part can include a lace (lace, lace) to adjust the upper part to fit the foot, and the lace is at least partially based on the manipulation of the effective length of the lace. It is adjustable between the 1st position and the 2nd position. The lower part can include a midsole and an outsole. Additionally, the lower portion may be connected to the upper portion in the midsole. The racing engine can include a top-loading race spool, in the loop of the race to allow manipulation of the effective length of the race through the rotation of the race spool. Engagement, the racing engine can be accepted into a cavity within the lower portion of the footwear device.

In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 can optionally include a cavity within the underside portion, which is adapted to detachably accept the racing engine.
In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 1 or 2 can optionally include a top-mounted spool having a lace groove, which extends along the diameter line of the spool to accept the loop of the race.

In Example 4, any one subject of Examples 1 to 3 can optionally include a racing engine having a top with a race groove, the race groove being a top-mounted race spool. Consistently extending inward and outward.

In Example 5, the subject matter of Example 4 optionally includes a race groove having an inner portion inside the top-mounted race spool and an outer portion outside the top-mounted race spool. Is possible.

In Example 6, the subject matter of Example 5 can optionally include an inner and outer portion of the race groove that transitions to the spool recess.
In Example 7, the subject matter of Example 6 can optionally include a spool recess having opposite semi-circular portions corresponding to the outer diameter portion of the top surface of the top-mounted race spool.

In Example 8, the subject matter of Example 7 can optionally include a top-mounted race spool that includes a reduced diameter portion below the top surface, and the reduced diameter portion is a race with a top-mounted race. A race recess is formed in cooperation with the spool recess to accommodate a portion of the race when wound on the spool.

In Example 9, any one subject of Examples 1-8 can optionally include a racing engine having a top surface with generally circular recesses, the top surface of a top-mounted race spool. The upper surface of the exposed, top-mounted race spool is divided into two semi-circular portions by the race groove.

In Example 10, the subject matter of Example 9 can optionally include a race groove portion, which divides the top surface of the top-mounted spool into a reduced diameter spool portion, the reduced diameter spool portion. The top-mounted spool is adapted to accept the race when rotated in the first direction.

In Example 11, any one subject of Examples 1-10 can optionally include a midsole with a midsole plate and accepts a racing engine.
In Example 12, the subject matter of Example 11 can optionally include a midsole plate made of a material that is substantially stiffer than the rest of the lower portion.

In Example 13, the subject of Example 11 or 12 can optionally include a midsole plate with an inner race guide and an outer race guide.
In Example 14, any one subject of Examples 11-13 may optionally include a midsole plate having a front flange and a rear flange to stabilize the midsole plate within the lower portion. It is possible.

In Example 15, any one subject of Examples 11-14 optionally comprises a midsole plate having an inner lid slot, an outer lid slot, and a lid latch recess to receive and secure the lid. It can be included.

In Example 16, the subject matter of Example 15 can optionally include a lid that, when fixed to the midsole plate, can keep the racing engine in the cavity within the midsole plate. be.

In Example 17, any one subject of Examples 1-16 can optionally include an upper portion having an inner opening, at least a portion of the lace extending over the inner opening.

In Example 18, any one subject of Examples 1-16 can optionally include an upper portion formed from a continuous part of the knitted fabric.
In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 17 or 18 can optionally include laces anchored in first and second locations on the upper portion.

In Example 20, the subject matter of Example 19 can optionally include a race that has been passed through a plurality of race guides that are attached or integrated with the upper portion.
Example 21 illustrates a modular racing engine. In this example, the modular racing engine can include a housing, a race spool, and a worm gear. The housing can include an upper part and a lower part, and the upper part can include a race groove and a spool recess. The upper and lower parts are capable of creating internal space within the housing to contain the components of a modular racing engine. The race spool may be disposed in a spool recess in the upper portion of the housing. The race spool includes a race groove in the top surface to receive the race cable and also includes a spool shaft extending downward through the top surface into the internal space of the housing. The worm gear can be connected to the lower end of the spool shaft, and the worm gear can be configured to accept input from the drive system inside the housing, with the race spool first. Rotate the race spool so that it winds the race cable around the race spool as it rotates in the direction.

In Example 22, the subject matter of Example 21 can optionally include a drive system having a worm drive for engaging the worm gear and a gear motor coupled to the worm drive. Is.

In Example 23, the subject of Example 22 can optionally include a gear motor connected to a worm drive via a gear box.
In Example 24, the subject matter of Example 22 can optionally include a worm drive that is positioned relative to the worm gear to transmit the load, the load being due to the tension applied to the race cable. It is generated and transmitted to the worm drive by the worm gear away from the gear motor.

In Example 25, the subject matter of Example 24 may optionally include a worm drive connected to a bushing on the opposite side of the gear motor to absorb the load generated by the tension applied to the race cable. It is possible and the load is transmitted to the worm drive by a worm gear disposed on the spool shaft.

In Example 26, any one subject of Examples 21-24 may optionally include a spool recess having opposed semi-circular portions corresponding to the outer diameter portion of the top surface of the top-mounted race spool. It is possible.

In Example 27, the subject matter of Example 26 can optionally include a race spool having a reduced diameter portion below the top surface, the reduced diameter portion being laced when the race is wound onto the race spool. A race recess is formed in cooperation with the spool recess to accommodate a part of the.

In Example 28, any one subject of Examples 21-27 can optionally include a race spool, a race groove, and a spool shaft made of a single component material.

In Example 29, any one subject of Examples 21-28 can optionally include a race shaft connected to a worm gear through a clutch system, where the clutch system has a race spool. Allows it to rotate freely when deactivated.

The drawings are not necessarily drawn in actual size, and in the drawings, similar reference numbers may describe similar components in different figures. Similar reference numbers with different subscripts may represent different cases of similar components. The drawings generally, by example, illustrate various embodiments discussed in this document, but not by limitation.

Exploded view showing components of an electric racing system according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing an actuator for interfacing with an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing actuators for interface connection with an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing actuators for interface connection with an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing actuators for interface connection with an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing a midsole plate for holding a racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing a midsole plate for holding a racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing a midsole plate for holding a racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing a midsole plate for holding a racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing a midsole and an outsole for accommodating a racing engine and related constructs according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing a midsole and an outsole for accommodating a racing engine and related constructs according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing a midsole and an outsole for accommodating a racing engine and related constructs according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawings and drawings showing a midsole and an outsole for accommodating a racing engine and related constructs according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawing of a footwear assembly including an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawing of a footwear assembly including an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawing of a footwear assembly including an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory drawing of a footwear assembly including an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. A flowchart illustrating a footwear assembly process for footwear assembly including a racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. A drawing illustrating an assembly process for assembling a footwear upper in preparation for assembly to a midsole according to some exemplary embodiments. A flow chart illustrating the assembly process for assembling the footwear upper in preparation for assembly to the midsole according to some exemplary embodiments. A drawing illustrating a mechanism for fixing a race in a spool of a racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. A block diagram illustrating components of an electric racing system according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory diagram showing a motor control scheme for an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory diagram showing a motor control scheme for an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory diagram showing a motor control scheme for an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. Explanatory diagram showing a motor control scheme for an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments.

The headings provided herein are for convenience only and do not necessarily affect the scope or meaning of the terms used.
The concept of self-tightening shoe laces was first a fictional power worn by Marty McFly in the movie Back to the Future II, released in 1989. -Widely known by the Nike® sneakers with lace. Nike® has released at least one version of the sneaker with power lace that looks similar to the movie prop version from Back to the Future II, but The internal mechanical system and surrounding footwear platforms used in these early versions are not necessarily suitable for mass production or daily use. In addition, previous designs for electric racing systems are relatively costly to manufacture, complex, difficult to assemble, and easy to repair, highlighting just some of the many issues. And suffered from problems such as weak or fragile mechanical mechanisms. We have developed a modular footwear platform to accommodate both electric and non-electric racing engines, among others, which solve some or all of the problems discussed above. bottom. The components discussed below are, but are not limited to, easy-to-repair components, replaceable automated racing engines, robust mechanical design, reliable operation, streamlined assembly processes, and Offers a variety of benefits, including customization at the retail stage. Various other benefits of the components described below will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

The electric racing engine discussed below has been thoroughly developed to provide a robust, easy-to-repair, and replaceable component of the automated racing footwear platform. The racing engine contains unique design elements that allow retail final assembly into a modular footwear platform. The racing engine design allows most of the footwear assembly process to utilize known assembly techniques, and its unique adaptation to the standard assembly process can still utilize current assembly resources. ..

In the example, a modular, automated racing footwear platform includes a midsole plate fixed to the midsole to accommodate a racing engine. The design of the midsole plate allows the racing engine to be dropped into the footwear platform as late as possible at the time of purchase. The midsole plate, and other aspects of the modular automated footwear platform, allow different types of racing engines to be used interchangeably. For example, the electric racing engine discussed below can be replaced with a human-powered racing engine. Alternatively, a fully automatic electric racing engine with foot presence sensing features or any other features may be housed within a standard midsole plate.

The automated footwear platform discussed herein can include an outsole actuator interface to provide tightening control to the end user and also a translucent protective outsole material. It provides visual feedback through LED lighting projected through. Actuators can provide tactile and visual feedback to the user and indicate the state of components of the racing engine or other automated footwear platform.

This first overview is intended to introduce the subject matter of this patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or comprehensive description of the various inventions disclosed in the more detailed description below.

Automated Footwear Platform The following discusses the various components of an automated footwear platform, including electric racing engines, midsole plates, and various other components of the platform. There is. Much of this disclosure focuses on electric racing engines, but many of the mechanical aspects of the designs discussed are human-powered racing engines or others with additional or less capability. It is applicable to the electric racing engine of. Therefore, the term "automated" as used in "automated footwear platforms" is not only intended to cover systems that operate without user input. Rather, the term "automated footwear platform" refers to various electric and human-powered mechanisms for systems that tighten or hold laces on footwear, automatically actuated mechanisms, It also includes mechanisms that are operated by humans.

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the components of an electric racing system for footwear according to some exemplary embodiments. The electric racing system 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes a racing engine 10, a lid 20, an actuator 30, a midsole plate 40, a midsole 50, and an outsole 60. FIG. 1 illustrates the basic assembly sequence of the components of an automated racing footwear platform. The electric racing system 1 begins with the midsole plate 40 secured within the midsole. The actuator 30 is then inserted into an opening inside the outside of the midsole plate, opposite the interface button that can be embedded in the outsole 60. The racing engine 10 is then dropped into the midsole plate 40. In the example, the racing system 1 is inserted under a continuous loop of racing cables and the racing cables are aligned with the spools in the racing engine 10 (discussed below). Finally, the lid 20 is inserted into the groove in the midsole plate 40, secured in the closed position, and latch-engaged into the recess in the midsole plate 40. The lid 20 is capable of capturing the racing engine 10 and can also help maintain the alignment of the racing cables during operation.

In an example, the footwear article or motorized racing system 1 comprises or interfaces with one or more sensors capable of monitoring or determining foot presence characteristics. It is configured in. Based on information from one or more foot presence sensors, footwear, including the electric racing system 1, may be configured to perform a variety of functions. For example, the foot presence sensor may be configured to provide binary information about whether the foot is present or absent in the footwear. If the binary signal from the foot presence sensor indicates that the foot is present, the electric racing system 1 can be activated to automatically tighten or loosen the footwear racing cable. (That is, loosen). In the example, the footwear article comprises a processor circuit, which is capable of receiving or interpreting a signal from the foot presence sensor. The processor circuit can optionally be embedded in the racing engine 10, or together with the racing engine 10, for example, in the sole of a footwear article.

An example of the racing engine 10 is described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2A-2N. An example of the actuator 30 is described in detail with reference to FIGS. 3A-3D. An example of the midsole plate 40 is described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4A-4D. Various additional details of the Electric Racing System 1 are discussed throughout the rest of this description.

2A-2N are explanatory views and drawings showing an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 2A introduces various external features of an exemplary racing engine 10, including a housing structure 100, a case screw 108, a race groove 110 (also referred to as a race guide relief 110), and a race. It includes a groove wall 112, a race groove transition 114, a spool recess 115, a button opening 120, a button 121, a button membrane seal 124, a programming header 128, a spool 130, and a race groove 132. Additional details of the housing structure 100 are discussed below with reference to FIG. 2B.

In the example, the racing engine 10 is held together by one or more screws, such as the case screws 108. The case screw 108 is positioned near the primary drive mechanism, enhancing the structural integrity of the racing engine 10. The case screw 108 also functions to support the assembly process, for example holding the case together for ultrasonic welding of external joints.

In this example, the racing engine 10 includes a race groove 110 and accepts a race or race cable when assembled into an automated footwear platform. The race groove 110 can include the race groove wall 112. The lace groove wall 112 can include chamfered edges to provide a smooth guide surface for the race cable to run during operation. A portion of the smooth guide surface of the race groove 110 can include a groove transition portion 114, which is a widened portion of the race groove 110 leading to the spool recess 115. The spool recess 115 migrates from the groove transition 114 into a generally circular portion that fits snugly into the outer shape of the spool 130. The spool recess 115 assists in retaining the race cable wound around the spool and also assists in maintaining the position of the spool 130. However, another aspect of the design provides the main retention of the spool 130. In this example, the spool 130 is shaped like a half yo-yo, with the race groove 132 running through a flat top surface and a spool shaft 133 (not shown in FIG. 2A). , Extends downward from the other side. The spool 130 is described in more detail below with reference to additional figures.

The sides of the racing engine 10 include a button opening 120 that allows the button 121 to actuate the mechanism to extend through the housing structure 100. The button 121 provides an external interface for the operation of the switch 122, which is illustrated in the additional figure discussed below. In some examples, the housing structure 100 includes a button membrane seal 124 to provide protection from dust and water. In this example, the button membrane seal 124 is a clear plastic (or similar material) with a maximum thickness of several mils (1 mil is 25.4 micrometers (1/1000 inch)), and this clear plastic. Is attached from the upper surface of the housing structure 100 to the bottom of the side surface, covering the corners. In another example, the button membrane seal 124 is a 50.8 micrometer (2 mil) thick vinyl adhesive film that covers the button 121 and the button opening 120.

FIG. 2B is an explanatory view of the housing structure 100 including the top 102 and the bottom 104. In this example, the top 102 includes features such as a case screw 108, a race groove 110, a race groove transition 114, a spool recess 115, a button opening 120, a button seal recess 126, and the like. The button seal recess 126 is a portion of the top 102 that is released to provide an inset for the button membrane seal 124. In this example, the button seal recess 126 is a few mils (1 mil is 25.4 micrometers) recessed outside the top surface of the top surface 104, covering a portion of the top surface outer edge and top. It has moved down over the length of a portion of the side surface of 104.

In this example, the bottom 104 includes features such as wireless charger access 105, joint 106, and grease isolation wall 109. Also, although not specifically identified, various features within the case screw base for receiving the case screw 108 and the grease isolation wall 109 for holding a portion of the drive mechanism are illustrated. The grease isolation wall 109 is designed to retain the grease or similar compounds surrounding the drive mechanism so as to be away from the electrical components of the racing engine 10, including the gear motor and the sealed gear box. .. In this example, the worm gear 150 and the worm drive unit 140 are contained within the grease isolation wall 109, while other drive configurations such as gear box 144 and gear motor 145. The element is on the outside of the grease isolation wall 109. The positioning of the various components can be understood, for example, through a comparison of FIGS. 2B and 2C.

FIG. 2C is an explanatory diagram of various internal components of the racing engine 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. In this example, the racing engine 10 has a spool magnet 136, an O-ring seal 138, a worm drive unit 140, a bushing 141, a worm drive key 142, a gear box 144, a gear motor 145, a motor encoder 146, and a motor circuit. It further includes a substrate 147, a worm gear 150, a circuit substrate 160, a motor header 161, a battery connection 162, and a wired charging header 163. The spool magnet 136 assists in tracking the movement of the spool 130 through detection by a magnetometer (not shown in FIG. 2C). The O-ring seal 138 functions to seal dust and moisture that may enter the racing engine 10 around the spool shaft 133.

In this example, the main drive components of the racing engine 10 include a worm drive unit 140, a worm gear 150, a gear motor 145, and a gear box 144. The worm gear 150 is designed to prevent reverse drive of the worm drive unit 140 and the gear motor 145, which is the main input force coming in from the racing cable through the spool 130. It means that it is distributed over the teeth of the relatively large worm gear and worm drive. This arrangement does not need to include gears strong enough to withstand both dynamic loads from active use of the footwear platform and tightening loads from tightening the racing system. In addition, it protects the gear box 144. The worm drive unit 140 includes additional features that help protect more fragile parts of the drive system, such as the worm drive key 142. In this example, the worm drive key 142 is a radial slot in the motor end of the worm drive unit 140 that interfaces with the pin through the drive shaft coming out of the gear box 144. This arrangement allows the worm drive unit 140 to move freely in the axial direction (away from the gear box 144) by transmitting their axial load to the bushing 141 and the housing structure 100. , Prevents the worm drive unit 140 from applying any axial force to the gear box 144 or the gear motor 145.

FIG. 2D is an explanatory view showing additional internal components of the racing engine 10. In this example, the racing engine 10 is driven by a worm drive unit 140, a bushing 141, a gear box 144, a gear motor 145, a motor encoder 146, a motor circuit board 147, a worm gear 150, and the like. Includes such components. FIG. 2D adds an explanatory view of the battery 170 and some better views of the drive components discussed above.

FIG. 2E is another explanatory view showing the internal components of the racing engine 10. In FIG. 2E, the worm gear 150 has been removed to better illustrate the indexing wheel 151 (also referred to as the Geneva wheel 151). As described in more detail below, the indexing wheel 151 provides a mechanism for returning the drive mechanism to the home in the event of electrical or mechanical failure and loss of position. In this example, the racing engine 10 also includes a wireless charging interconnect 165 and a wireless charging coil 166, which are positioned under the battery 170, which is not shown in this figure. In this example, the wireless charging coil 166 is mounted on the outer lower surface of the bottom 104 of the racing engine 10.

FIG. 2F is a cross-sectional explanatory view of the racing engine 10 according to the exemplary embodiment. FIG. 2F not only illustrates the structure of the spool 130, but also helps to illustrate how the race groove 132 and the race groove 110 interface with the race cable 131. As shown in this example, the race 131 runs continuously through the race groove 110 into the race groove 132 of the spool 130. Further, the cross-sectional explanatory view shows the race recess 135 and the spool intermediate portion, which are the places where the race 131 is to be wound when the race 131 is wound by the rotation of the spool 130. The spool intermediate portion 137 is a circular reduced diameter portion arranged below the upper surface of the spool 130. The race recess 135 is formed by an upper portion of the spool 130, the upper portion of the spool 130 having a radius so as to substantially fill the spool recess 115, the sides and floor of the spool recess 115, and the spool intermediate portion 137. It extends in the direction. In some examples, the top of the spool 130 can extend beyond the spool recess 115. In another example, the spool 130 fits perfectly within the spool recess 115, with a radial top extending to the side wall of the spool recess 115, but the spool 130 is free to rotate by the spool recess 115. Make it possible. The race 131 is captured by the race groove 132 as it runs across the racing engine 10, which causes the race 131 to rotate over the body of the spool 130 in the race recess 135 as the spool 130 is turned. It is supposed to be.

As illustrated by the cross section of the racing engine 10, the spool 130 includes a spool shaft 133, which connects to the worm gear 150 after passing through the O-ring 138. In this example, the spool shaft 133 is connected to the worm gear via a connecting pin 134. In some examples, the connecting pin 134 extends from the spool shaft 133 in only one axial direction and is brought into contact with the connecting pin 134 when the worm gear 150 is reversed in direction. Previously, it was contacted by a key on the worm gear to allow almost complete rotation of the worm gear 150. Also, the clutch system may be implemented to connect the spool 130 to the worm gear 150. In such an example, the clutch mechanism may be actuated to allow the spool 130 to rotate freely when loosening (relaxing) the race. In an example where the connecting pin 134 extends from the spool shaft 133 in only one axial direction, the spool is free to move during the initial operation of the relaxation process while the worm gear 150 is reverse driven. Is allowed to do. Allowing the spool 130 to move freely during the initial part of the relaxation process helps prevent entanglement of the race 131. The reason is that it provides time for the user to start loosening the footwear, which in turn provides tension in the direction of loosening the race 131 before being driven by the worm gear 150. be.

FIG. 2G is another cross-sectional explanatory view of the racing engine 10 according to the exemplary embodiment. FIG. 2G illustrates an inner cross section of the racing engine 10 as compared to FIG. 2F, which is an additional such as circuit board 160, wireless charging interconnect 165, and wireless charging coil 166. The components are illustrated. Also, FIG. 2G is used to show additional details surrounding the interfaces of spool 130 and race 131.

FIG. 2H is a top view of the racing engine 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 2H highlights the grease isolation wall 109 and how the grease isolation wall 109 identifies the drive mechanism, including the spool 130, the worm gear 150, the worm drive unit 140, and the gear box 145. It is illustrated whether it surrounds the part of. In a particular example, the grease isolation wall 109 separates the worm drive 140 from the gear box 145. FIG. 2H also provides a top view of the interface between the spool 130 and the race cable 131, with the race cable 131 running inward and outward through the race groove 132 in the spool 130. ..

FIG. 2I is an explanatory view of the upper surface of a part of the worm gear 150 and the index wheel 15 of the racing engine 10 according to the exemplary embodiment. The index wheel 151 is a variation of the well-known Geneva wheel used in wristwatch manufacturing and film projectors. A typical generator wheel or drive mechanism converts continuous rotational movement into intermittent movement, for example, as required in a film projector, or to move the second hand of a wristwatch intermittently. Provide a method. Watchmakers have used different types of Geneva wheels to prevent mechanical watch springs from overwinding, but Geneva wheels with missing slots (eg, one of Geneva slots 157). One is missing). The missing slot will prevent further indexing of the Geneva wheel, which is responsible for winding the spring and preventing overwinding. In the illustrated example, the racing engine 10 includes a variation on the Geneva wheel, the indexing wheel 151, which includes a small stop tooth 156 that acts as a stop mechanism in the return home motion. .. As illustrated in FIGS. 2J-2M, the standard Geneva tooth 155 is wormed when the index tooth 152 is engaged in the Geneva slot 157 next to one of the Geneva teeth 155. It is simply indexed for each rotation of the gear 150. However, when the index tooth 152 is engaged in the Geneva slot 157 next to the stop tooth 156, a greater force is generated, which can be used to stall the drive mechanism in the return home motion. .. The stop teeth 156 can be used to generate a known location for the mechanism to return to the home in the event of loss of other positioning information, such as the motor encoder 146.

2J-2M are explanatory views of the worm gear 150 and the index wheel 151 that move through the indexing operation according to the exemplary embodiment. As discussed above, these figures illustrate what happens during a single full rotation of the worm gear 150, starting at FIG. 2J and over FIG. 2M. In FIG. 2J, the index tooth 153 of the worm gear 150 is engaged in the Geneva slot 157 between the first Geneva tooth 155a of the Geneva tooth 155 and the stop tooth 156. FIG. 2K illustrates the index wheel 151 at the first index position, where the first index position is maintained when the worm gear 150 initiates its rotation of the index teeth 153. In FIG. 2L, the index tooth 153 begins to engage the Geneva slot 157 on the opposite side of the first Geneva tooth 155a. Finally, in FIG. 2M, the index tooth 153 is fully engaged in the Geneva slot 157 between the first Geneva tooth 155a and the second Geneva tooth 155b. The process shown in FIGS. 2J-2M continues each rotation of the worm gear 150 until the index tooth 153 engages the stop tooth 156. As discussed above, the increased force can stall the drive mechanism as the index teeth 153 engage the stop teeth 156.

FIG. 2N is an exploded view of the racing engine 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. An exploded view of the racing engine 10 provides an explanatory view of how all the different components are combined. FIG. 2N shows the racing engine 10 upside down, with the bottom 104 at the top of the page and the top 102 near the bottom. In this example, the wireless charging coil 166 is shown as attached to the outside (bottom) of the bottom 104. The exploded view also provides a good explanatory view of how the worm drive unit 140 is assembled with the bushing 141, drive shaft 143, gear box 144, and gear motor 145. This illustration does not include a drive shaft pin that is accepted into the worm drive key 142 at the first end of the worm drive unit 140. As discussed above, the worm drive unit 140 slides over the drive shaft 143 and engages with the drive shaft pin in the worm drive key 142, and the worm drive key 142 is essentially worm drive. A slot that runs in the transverse direction with respect to the drive shaft 143 at the first end of the portion 140.

3A-3D are explanatory views and drawings showing an actuator 30 for interfacing with an electric racing engine according to an exemplary embodiment. In this example, the actuator 30 includes features such as a bridge 310, a light conductor 320, a rear arm 330, a central arm 332, and a front arm 334. FIG. 3A also illustrates the relevant features of the racing engine 10, such as a plurality of LEDs (also represented as LEDs 340), buttons 121, switches 122 and the like. In this example, the rear arm 330 and the front arm 334 can each operate one of the switches 122 separately through the button 121. Also, the actuator 30 is designed to allow the operation of both switches 122 at the same time, such as for resetting or other functions. The main function of the actuator 30 is to provide the racing engine 10 with a tightening command and a loosening command. The actuator 30 also includes a light conductor 320, which directs light from the LED 340 to the outside of the footwear platform with an outer portion (eg, outsole 60). The light conductor 320 is structured so as to disperse the light from the plurality of individual LED sources and make it uniform over the surface of the actuator 30.

In this example, the arms of the actuator 30, i.e. the rear arm 330 and the front arm 334, include flanges to prevent over-operation of the switch 122, providing safety measures against impacts on the sides of the footwear platform. offer. Also, the large central arm 332 is designed to carry the impact load on the sides of the racing engine 10 instead of allowing these loads to be transmitted to the button 121.

FIG. 3B provides a side view of the actuator 30, which further illustrates the exemplary structure of the front arm 334 and its engagement with the button 121. FIG. 3C is an additional top view of the actuator 30, illustrating an actuation path through the rear arm 330 and the front arm 334. Also, FIG. 3C shows cross-section lines AA, which correspond to the cross-section illustrated in FIG. 3D. In FIG. 3D, the actuator 30 is shown in cross section with the transmitted light 345 shown by the dotted line. The light conductor 320 provides a transmission medium for the transmitted light 345 from the LED 340. Also, FIG. 3D illustrates aspects of the outsole 60, such as the actuator cover 610 and the raised actuator interface 615.

4A-4D are explanatory views and drawings showing a midsole plate 40 for holding the racing engine 10 according to some exemplary embodiments. In this example, the midsole plate 40 has a racing engine cavity 410, an inner race guide 420, an outer race guide 421, a lid slot 430, a front flange 440, a rear flange 450, an upper surface 460, a lower surface 470, And features such as notch 480 for actuators. The racing engine cavity 410 is designed to accommodate the racing engine 10. In this example, the racing engine cavity 410 holds the racing engine 10 laterally and anteroposteriorly, but does not include any built-in features for locking the racing engine 10 into the pocket. Optionally, the racing engine cavity 410 is a setback, tab, or along one or more side walls that can reliably hold the racing engine 10 inside the racing engine cavity 410. , It is possible to include similar mechanical features.

The inner race guide 420 and the outer race guide 421 assist in guiding the race cable into the race engine pocket 410 and above the racing engine 10 (when present). The inner / outer race guides 420,421 include chamfered edges and multiple ramps that slope downward to guide the race cable to the desired position above the racing engine 10. It is possible to support. In this example, the inner / outer race guides 420,421 include openings in the sides of the midsole plate 40, which are many times wider than the diameter of a typical racing cable. In another example, the openings for the inner / outer race guides 420,421 can be a few times wider than the diameter of the racing cable.

In this example, the midsole plate 40 includes a carved or contoured front flange 440, which extends far inside the midsole plate 40. The exemplary front flange 440 is designed to provide additional support under the arch of the footwear platform. However, in another example, the front flange 440 may be less prominent on the inside. In this example, the rear flange 450 also includes a specific contour with extended portions, both inside and outside. The shape of the rear flange 450 shown provides enhanced outer stability for the racing engine 10.

4B-4D illustrate inserting the lid 20 into the midsole plate 40 to keep the racing engine 10 and to capture the race cable 131. In this example, the lid 20 includes features such as a latch 210, a lid race guide 220, a lid spool recess 230, and a lid clip 240. The lid race guide 220 can include both inner and outer lid race guides 220. The lid race guide 220 helps maintain the alignment of the race cables 131 through the proper parts of the racing engine 10. Also, the lid clip 240 can include both inner and outer lid clips 240. The lid clip 240 provides a fixed point for attaching the lid 20 to the midsole plate 40. As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the lid 20 is inserted straight down into the midsole plate 40 and the lid clip 240 enters the midsole plate 40 through the lid slot 430.

As illustrated in FIG. 4C, when the lid clip 240 is inserted through the lid slot 430, the lid 20 is moved forward so that the lid clip 240 is not disengaged from the midsole plate 40. keep. FIG. 4D shows the rotation or rotation of the lid 20 around the lid clip 240 to secure the racing engine 10 and the race cable 131 by engaging the latch 210 with the lid latch recess 490 in the midsole plate 40. The pivot is illustrated. The lid 20 secures the racing engine 10 in the midsole plate 40 when stopped in the proper position.

5A-5D are explanatory views and drawings showing the midsole 50 and outsole 60 configured to accommodate the racing engine 10 and related components according to some exemplary embodiments. be. The midsole 50 can be formed from any suitable footwear material and also includes various features to accommodate the midsole plate 40 and related components. In this example, the midsole 50 includes features such as plate recess 510, front flange recess 520, rear flange recess 530, actuator opening 540, actuator cover recess 550, and the like. The plate recess 510 includes various notches and similar features to match the corresponding features of the midsole plate 40. The actuator opening 540 is sized and positioned to provide access to the actuator 30 from the outside of the footwear platform 1. The actuator cover recess 550 is a recessed portion of the midsole 50, the recessed portion for protecting the actuator 30 and the racing engine 10 as illustrated in FIGS. 5B and 5C. It is adapted to accommodate a molded cover to provide a specific tactile and visual appearance with respect to the primary user interface to.

5B and 5C illustrate parts of the midsole 50 and outsole 60 according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 5B includes an explanatory view of an exemplary actuator cover 610 and a raised actuator interface 615, the raised actuator interface 615 being molded into the actuator cover 610 or otherwise formed. Has been done. FIG. 5C is an additional example of the actuator 610 and the raised actuator interface 615, including horizontal stripping to disperse the portion of light transmitted through the light conductor 320 portion of the actuator 30 to the outsole 60. It is shown in the figure.

FIG. 5D further illustrates the actuator cover recess 550 above the midsole 50 and further illustrates the positioning of the actuator 30 into the actuator opening 540 before applying the actuator cover 610. ing. In this example, the actuator cover recess 550 is designed to accept adhesive to attach the actuator cover 610 to the midsole 50 and outsole 60.

6A-6D are explanatory views of the footwear assembly 1 including the electric racing engine 10 according to some exemplary embodiments. In this example, FIGS. 6A-6C show a perspective view of an assembled automated footwear platform 1 including a racing engine 10, a midsole plate 40, a midsole 50, and an outsole 60. ing. FIG. 6A is an outer side view of the automated footwear platform 1. FIG. 6B is a side view of the inside of the automated footwear platform 1. FIG. 6C is a top view of the automated footwear platform 1 with the upper portion removed. The top view demonstrates the relative positioning of the racing engine 10, the lid 20, the actuator 30, the midsole plate 40, the midsole 50, and the outsole 60. In this example, the top view also illustrates spool 130, inner race guide 420, outer race guide 421, front flange 440, rear flange 450, actuator cover 610, and raised actuator interface 615. There is.

FIG. 6D is an explanatory view showing the upper surface of the upper 70 illustrating an exemplary racing configuration according to some exemplary embodiments. In this example, the upper 70, in addition to the race 131 and the racing engine 10, has an outer race fixing part 71, an inner race fixing part 72, an outer race guide 73, an inner race guide 74, and a brio cable. Includes 75. The example illustrated in FIG. 6D includes a continuous knitted fabric upper 70, with an oblique lace pattern with non-overlapping inner and outer lace paths. The race path begins at the outer race fixings, passes through the outer race guides 73, over the racing engine 10, through the inner race guides 74, and back to the inner race fixings 72. Has been generated in. In this example, the race 131 forms a continuous loop from the outer race fixing portion 71 to the inner race fixing portion 72. Inner to outer tightening is transmitted through the Brio cable 75 in this example. In another example, the race path may be cross-shaped or may incorporate additional features to transmit the tightening force inward and outward across the upper 70. Additionally, the continuous race loop concept can be incorporated into a more conventional upper with a central (inner) gap, with race 131 crossing back and forth across the central gap. It has become.

Assembling Process FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a footwear assembling process for assembling an automated footwear platform 1 including a racing engine 10 according to some exemplary embodiments. In this example, the assembly process is at 710 to obtain an outsole / midsole assembly, at 720 to insert and attach a midsole plate, at 730 to attach a laced upper, and at 740. The process of inserting the actuator, optionally the process of shipping the assembly to the retail store at 745, the process of selecting the racing engine at 750, and the process of inserting the racing engine into the midsole plate at 760. And includes operations such as the process of fixing the racing engine at 770. Process 700, described in more detail below, can include some or all of the process operations described, and at least some of the process operations can be in various locations (. For example, it can happen in a manufacturing plant as opposed to a retail store. In certain examples, all of the process operations discussed with reference to Process 700 can be completed within the manufacturing site, and the completed automated footwear platform is available to consumers or for purchase. Delivered directly to your retail location. The process 700 can also include assembly operations associated with the assembly of the racing engine 10, which are illustrated and discussed above with reference to various diagrams including FIGS. 1 to 4D. .. Many of these details have not been specifically discussed with reference to the Process 700 description provided below, solely for brevity and clarity.

In this example, the process 700 begins with the acquisition of the outsole and midsole assembly at 710, such as the midsole 50 and outsole 60. The midsole 50 may be attached to the outsole 60 during or before the process 700. At 720, process 700 continues to insert a midsole plate, such as the midsole plate 40, into the plate recess 510, in some cases the midsole plate 40 is above the bottom surface. Contains a layer of adhesive to allow the midsole plate to adhere into the midsole. In another example, the adhesive is applied to the midsole prior to insertion of the midsole plate. In some examples, the adhesive may be thermally activated after assembly of the midsole plate 40 into the plate recess 510. In yet another example, the midsole is designed by a tight fit with the midsole plate, which does not require glue to secure the two components of the automated footwear platform. In yet another example, the midsole plate is secured through a combination of fasteners such as tight fits and adhesives.

At 730, Process 700 continues to attach the laced upper portion of the automated footwear platform to the midsole. Installation of the upper part with lace is done through any known footwear manufacturing process and into the midsole plate for subsequent engagement with a racing engine such as the Racing Engine 10. With positioning of the lower race loop. For example, if a laced upper is attached to the midsole 50 with the midsole plate 40 inserted, the lower race loop will be positioned to align with the inner race guide 420 and the outer race guide 421. They are properly positioned to engage the racing engine 10 when inserted later in the assembly process. The assembly of the upper portion is discussed in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 8A-8B, including how race loops can be formed during assembly.

At 740, process 700 continues to insert actuators such as actuator 30 into the midsole plate. Optionally, the insertion of the actuator can be done prior to the attachment of the upper portion in motion 730. In the example, insertion of the actuator 30 into the actuator notch 480 of the midsole plate 40 involves a snap fit between the actuator 30 and the actuator notch 480. Optionally, at 745, Process 700 continues to ship the parts of the automated footwear platform to a retail location or similar sales location. The rest of the operation in Process 700 can be performed without special tools or materials, without the need to manufacture and inventory any combination of automated footwear assembly parts and racing engine options. Allows flexible customization of products sold at the retail stage. The ability to configure a footwear platform at the retail stage, even if there are only two different racing engine options (for example, fully automated and manually operated), It enhances flexibility and makes it possible to facilitate the repair of racing engines.

At 750, process 700 continues to select the racing engine, which may be arbitrary operation in cases where only one racing engine is available. In the example, the racing engine 10 (electric racing engine) is selected for assembly from operation 710-740 into the assembly parts. However, as mentioned above, the automated footwear platform will accommodate different types of racing engines, from fully automatic electric racing engines to manually operated racing engines. It is designed. The assembly built in operation 710-740 provides a modular platform with components such as the outsole 60, midsole 50, and midsole plate 40, and a wide range of any automation configurations. Contain the element.

At 760, Process 700 continues to insert the selected racing engine into the midsole plate. For example, the racing engine 10 may be inserted into the midsole plate 40 with the racing engine 10 slipped under a race loop running through the racing engine cavity 410. A lid (or similar component) with the racing engine 10 in place and with the race cable engaged in the spool of the racing engine, such as the spool 130. Can be installed in the midsole plate to secure the racing engine 10 and the race. An example of mounting the lid 20 into the midsole plate 40 to secure the racing engine 10 is illustrated in FIGS. 4B-4D and discussed above. With the lid fixed on top of the racing engine, the automated footwear platform is complete and ready for active use.

8A-8B are a set of explanatory diagrams and flowcharts that generally illustrate the assembly process 800 for assembling the footwear upper in preparation for assembly to the midsole according to some exemplary embodiments. including.

FIG. 8A is a series of assembling the laced upper portion of the footwear assembly for final assembly into an automated footwear platform, such as the process 700 discussed above. It visually shows the assembly operation. The process 800 illustrated in FIG. 8A includes operations further discussed below with reference to FIG. 8B. In this example, process 800 starts with operation 810, which involves the step of acquiring the upper and lace (race cable) of the knit. Next, in motion 820, a lace is attached to the first half of the upper of the knit. In this example, the process of threading the lace through the upper involves threading the race cable through multiple lace holes and fixing one end to the front of the upper. Next, in operation 830, the race cable passes under the jig supporting the upper and is routed to the opposite side. In some examples, the jig comprises a groove or shape that forms a particular path in order to generate the desired race loop length. Then, in motion 840, the lace is attached to the other half of the upper while maintaining the lower loop of the lace around the jig. Also, the illustrated version of motion 840 can include the step of tightening the race, which is motion 850 in FIG. 8B. At 860, the lace is fixed and cut off, at 870, the jig is removed, leaving the upper of the knit with lace, with the lower lace loop underneath the upper portion.

FIG. 8B is a flow chart illustrating another example of Process 800 for assembling the footwear upper. In this example, process 800 includes the steps of obtaining the upper and race cable at 810, passing the lace through the first half of the upper at 820, and passing the lace under the race jig at 830. It includes operations such as passing the race through the second half of the upper at 840, tightening the racing at 850, completing the upper at 860, removing the race jig at 870, and so on.

Process 800 begins at 810 by acquiring the upper and race cables to become an assembly. Acquiring the upper can include placing the upper on a race jig used throughout the other operations of Process 800. As mentioned above, one function of the race jig can be to provide a mechanism for generating repeatable race loops with respect to a particular footwear upper. In certain examples, the jig may depend on the size of the shoe, while in other examples the jig can accommodate multiple sizes and / or upper types. At 820, process 800 continues by passing a race cable through the first half of the upper. The racing operation can include passing the race cable through a series of lace holes or similar features embedded in the upper. Also, the racing operation at 820 can include fixing one end (eg, a first end) of the race cable to a portion of the upper. Fixing the lace cable can include sewing, tying, or otherwise terminating the first end of the race cable to the fixed portion of the upper.

At 830, process 800 continues to pass the free end of the race cable under the upper and around the race jig. In this example, the race jig causes the upper to generate a proper race loop under the upper for final engagement with the racing engine after the upper has been joined to the midsole / outsole assembly. (See the discussion in Figure 7 above). The race jig includes grooves or similar features and is capable of retaining the race cable at least in part during the subsequent operation of process 800.

At 840, process 800 passes the lace through the second half of the upper by the free end of the lace cable. Passing the lace through the second half can include passing the lace cable through a second series of lace holes or similar features above the second half of the upper. At 850, process 800, through various race holes, around the race jig, to ensure that the lower race loop is properly formed for proper engagement with the racing engine. Tighten the race cable. The lace jig helps to get the proper lace loop length, and different lace jigs can be used for different sizes or styles of footwear. The racing process is completed at 860 by fixing the free end of the race cable to the second half of the upper. Also, the completion of the upper can include additional cutting or suturing movements. Finally, at 870, process 800 is completed by removing the upper from the race jig.

FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating a mechanism for fixing a race in a spool of a racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. In this example, the spool 130 of the racing engine 10 receives the race cable 131 in the race groove 132. FIG. 9 includes a race cable with a ferrule and a spool with a race groove that includes a recess for receiving the ferrule. In this example, the ferrule snaps (eg, tightens) into the recess to help keep the race cable in the spool. Other exemplary spools, such as spool 130, do not include recesses and other components of the automated footwear platform are used to keep the race cable in the race groove of the spool. ..

FIG. 10A is a block diagram illustrating components of an electric racing system for footwear according to some exemplary embodiments. System 1000 illustrates the basic components of an electric racing system, such as a printed circuit board assembly (PCA) with interface buttons, foot presence sensors, processor circuits, batteries, charging coils, etc. Includes encoders, motors, transmissions, and spools. In this example, the interface button and foot presence sensor are communicating with the circuit board (PCA), and the circuit board (PCA) is communicating with the battery and charging coil. Also, the encoder and motor are connected to the circuit board and to each other. The transmission connects the motor to the spool to form a drive mechanism.

In the example, the processor circuit controls one or more aspects of the drive mechanism. For example, a processor circuit may be configured to receive information from a button and / or from a foot presence sensor and / or from a battery and / or from a drive mechanism and / or from an encoder. It may also be further configured to issue commands to the drive mechanism, for example, to tighten or loosen the footwear, or to acquire or record sensor information, among other functions.

Motor Control Schemes FIGS. 11A-11D are explanatory views showing a motor control scheme 1100 for an electric racing engine according to some exemplary embodiments. In this example, the motor control scheme 1100 involves dividing the total travel into segments in terms of race winding, where the segments are the race travel (eg, the "home / loose" position at one end and the other. The size is changing based on the position on the continuum (between the maximum tightening at the end of). The segment can be sized in terms of the angle of spool travel, as the motor controls the radial spool and will be controlled primarily via the radial encoder on the motor shaft. , It is also possible to see from the viewpoint of encoder count). On the "loose" side of the continuum, the segments can be larger, for example, 10 degree spool travel. The reason is that the amount of race movement is not important. However, as the race is tightened, each increment of race travel becomes more and more important to get the desired amount of race tightening. Other parameters, such as motor current, can be used as a secondary measure for race tightening or continuum position. FIG. 11A includes explanatory views of different segment sizes based on their position along the tightening continuum.

FIG. 11B illustrates the use of the tightening continuum position to construct a table of motion profiles based on the current tightening continuum position and the desired end position. The exercise profile can then be transformed into a particular input from the user input button. The motion profile includes spool motion parameters such as acceleration (Accel (degrees / sec / sec)), velocity (Vel (degrees / sec)), deceleration (Dec (degrees / sec / sec)), and movement. Includes angle (Angle (degree)) and the like. FIG. 11C shows an exemplary exercise profile plotted over a graph of velocity over time.

FIG. 11D is a graphic illustrating exemplary user input for activating various motion profiles along a tightening continuum.
Other Notes Throughout this specification, multiple cases may implement components, operations, or structures described as a single case. Although the individual operations of one or more methods are illustrated and described as separate operations, one or more individual operations may be performed simultaneously and the operations need not be performed in the order shown. Structures and functions presented as separate components in an exemplary configuration may be implemented as combined structures or components. Similarly, structures and functions presented as a single component may be implemented as separate components. These and other modifications, modifications, additions and improvements are within the scope of the subject matter herein.

The subject matter of the present invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments, but various modifications and modifications to these embodiments have been made without departing from the broader scope of the present disclosure. It can be carried out. Such embodiments of the subject matter of the invention are disclosed in practice, for convenience only and without attempting to voluntarily limit the scope of the application to any single disclosure or concept of the invention. ing.

The embodiments presented herein are described in sufficient detail to allow one of ordinary skill in the art to carry out the disclosed teachings. Other embodiments may be used and derived from such that structural and logical substitutions and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, disclosure should not be construed in a limited sense, and the scope of the various embodiments includes the full range of equivalents to which the subject being disclosed is entitled.

As used herein, the term "or" may be construed in a comprehensive or exclusive sense. In addition, multiple examples may be provided as a single example for the resources, behaviors, or structures described herein. In addition, the boundaries between various resources, operations, modules, engines, and data stores are somewhat arbitrary, and certain behaviors are shown in certain exemplary configuration situations. Other assignments of functionality are envisioned and may fall within the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure. In general, structures and functions presented as separate resources in configuration examples may be implemented as combined structures or resources. Similarly, structures and functionality presented as a single resource may be implemented as separate resources. These and other modifications, modifications, additions and improvements are included within the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure represented by the appended claims. Therefore, the specification and drawings should be regarded as exemplary rather than limiting.

Each of these non-limiting examples is valid on its own and can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or more other examples.
The detailed description above includes references to the accompanying drawings that form part of the detailed description. The drawings, by way of example, show specific embodiments in which the present invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples" or "examples." Such examples can include elements in addition to those illustrated or described. However, we also contemplate examples in which only the elements illustrated or described are provided. In addition, we use any combination or substitution with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof) or the elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof). An example is intended or another example (or one or more aspects thereof) is shown.

Use of this document is controlled if there is inconsistent use between this document and the document incorporated as a reference.
In the present specification, as is common in patent documents, when a component or the like is described in the singular, one or more apart from other description or use of "at least one" or "one or more". including. In the present specification, unless otherwise specified, "or" is used non-exclusively. For example, when "A or B" is used, "A but not B" and "B but not A" are used. , And "A and B". As used herein, the term "inclusion" is used synonymously with "comprising." In the following claims, when the configurations are listed after "include" and "provide", other configurations may be added. If other configurations are added to the listed configurations in a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process, they are still within the claims.

Furthermore, in the claims below, terms such as "first", "second" and "third" are used solely for distinction and impose in turn requirements on those with them. Not intended.

Examples of methods described herein, such as those of motor control, can be performed, at least in part, mechanically or computerically. Some examples include computer-readable or machine-readable media encoded with instructions that can operate to configure an electronic device to perform the method described in the example above. be able to. Implementations of such methods can include code such as microcode, assembly language code, and high-level language code. Such code can include computer-readable instructions for performing various methods. The code can form part of a computer program product. Further, in one example, the code can be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-temporary, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other times. Examples of these specific computer-readable media include hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical disks (eg, compact and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, and random access memory (RAM). ), Read-only memory (ROM), etc. are included.

The above description is exemplary and not limiting. For example, the above examples (or one or more embodiments thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used by those skilled in the art by considering the above description. A summary, if any, is included so that the reader can quickly identify the nature of the technical disclosure. It should be understood not to be used to interpret or limit the claims or meaning. Also, in the above description, various features can be grouped to streamline disclosure. This should not be construed as intended that the unclaimed disclosed features are essential to the claim. Rather, the subject matter of the present invention may be less than all the features of the particular embodiments disclosed. Therefore, the appended claims are incorporated into the detailed description as an embodiment or embodiment, each claim is independently substantiated as a separate embodiment, and such embodiments are in various combinations. Or they can be combined with each other in a permutation. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, with the scope of such claims being determined along with the full scope of the equivalents to which it is entitled.

Claims (25)

An upper portion including a lace, wherein the lace is for adjusting the upper portion so as to fit the foot.
A racing engine that includes a top-mounted race spool that is exposed from the top surface of the racing engine and that allows the effective length of the race to be manipulated through the rotation of the race spool. Engaging in the loop, the racing engine is housed in a cavity within the lower portion, including the midsole and outsole.
A modular footwear device. The top-mounted spool includes a race groove and includes a race groove.
The modular footwear device of claim 1, wherein the lace groove extends along the diameter line of the spool to accept the loop of the lace. The racing engine includes a top with race grooves.
The modular footwear device of claim 1, wherein the race groove extends inward and outward in alignment with the top-mounted race spool. The modular foot according to claim 3, wherein the race groove includes an inner portion inside the race spool mounted on the top and an outer portion outside the race spool mounted on the top. Wear device. The modular footwear device according to claim 4, wherein the inner portion and the outer portion of the race groove portion are transitioned to a spool recess. The top-mounted race spool includes a reduced diameter portion below the top surface.
The modular footwear device of claim 1, wherein the reduced diameter portion is adapted to accommodate a portion of the race when the race is wound onto the top-mounted race spool. The top-mounted race spool includes a race groove and
The race groove portion divides the upper surface of the top-mounted spool into a reduced-diameter spool portion, and the reduced-diameter spool portion holds the race when the top-mounted spool is rotated in the first direction. The modular footwear device according to claim 1, which is adapted to be accepted. With a midsole that includes a midsole plate and accepts the racing engine
The modular footwear device of claim 1, wherein the midsole plate is made of a material that is substantially stiffer than the rest of the lower portion. The modular footwear device of claim 8, wherein the midsole plate comprises an inner race guide and an outer race guide. 9. The modular footwear device of claim 9, wherein the midsole plate includes an inner lid slot, an outer lid slot, and a lid latch recess to receive and secure the lid. 10. The modular footwear device of claim 10, wherein the lid, when secured to the midsole plate, holds the racing engine in the cavity within the midsole plate. An upper portion including a lace, wherein the lace is for adjusting the upper portion so as to fit the foot.
The lower part, including the midsole and outsole , which is connected to the upper part,
A racing engine that includes a top-mounted race spool that can be accepted in a cavity within the lower portion , wherein the racing engine has an upper surface and the racing engine operates. A continuous loop of the race is adapted to guide the racing engine to allow manipulation of the effective length of the race, and the continuous loop of the race is inside and outside across the width of the cavity. running in the direction, and the racing engine,
A modular footwear device. 12. The modular footwear device of claim 12, wherein the top surface of the racing engine includes a race groove for guiding the continuous loop to the racing engine. The racing engine engages the continuous loop of the race and
12. The modular footwear device of claim 12, comprising a race spool adapted to manipulate the effective length when rotated by the racing engine. 14. The modular footwear device of claim 14, wherein the lace spool comprises a race groove extending along the diameter line of the race spool to accommodate the continuous loop of the race. The modular footwear device according to claim 15, wherein the lace groove extends downward through the upper surface to a reduced diameter portion of the race spool. 16. The modular footwear device of claim 16, wherein the reduced diameter portion of the race spool is adapted to accept the race as the race spool rotates in a first direction. The top surface includes a circular recess, said to expose the upper surface of the top-mounted race spool, the upper surface of said top-mounted race spool is divided into two semicircular parts by race groove, wherein Item 12. The modular footwear device according to item 12. The race groove portion divides the upper surface of the top-mounted race spool into a reduced-diameter spool portion, and the reduced-diameter spool portion is described when the top-mounted race spool rotates in the first direction. The modular footwear device of claim 18, adapted to accept a race. The racing engine includes a top with race grooves.
12. The race groove portion extends inward and outward in accordance with the race spool, and includes an inner portion inside the race spool and an outer portion outside the race spool. Modular footwear device described in. 20. The modular footwear device of claim 20, wherein the inner portion and the outer portion of the race groove are respectively adapted to guide a continuous loop of the race to the racing engine. Further including a midsole placed above the lower portion
The midsole includes a midsole plate having a cavity for receiving the racing engine, modular footwear device according to claim 12. 22. The modular footwear device of claim 22, wherein the midsole plate is made of a material that is more rigid than the rest of the lower portion. Coupled to said midsole plate, further comprising an adapted cover to secure the racing engine in the cavity, the modular footwear device according to claim 22. A racing engine for footwear equipment used in racing tightening
A housing that can be accommodated in a cavity within the lower portion of the footwear device, including the midsole and outsole.
A race spool adapted to accept a continuous loop of the race so that the effective length of the race can be manipulated when exposed from the top surface of the housing and rotated, said to the race. A continuous loop runs inward and outward across the width of the housing, with a race spool,
Including racing engine.

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